Charter Communications is set to acquire Cox Communications in a blockbuster deal valued at approximately $34.5 billion. This merger will combine their respective services under the Cox Communications name, creating the largest cable TV and broadband provider in the United States. Reuters reported that the merger's scale will allow the new entity to serve nearly 38 million customers, surpassing Comcast to become the country's top cable operator.

In terms of leadership, Charter CEO Chris Winfrey will continue as the President and CEO of the combined company. Alex Taylor, CEO of Cox Enterprises, will take on the role of Chairman of the Board. Cox Enterprises will receive a 23% equity stake in the newly formed company along with $4 billion in cash, making it the largest shareholder. The deal, which includes $21.9 billion in equity for Cox, values the company at $34.5 billion, factoring in its debt.

The merger aims to bolster the companies against the competitive pressures from streaming services and the high costs associated with infrastructure. As reported by the Financial Times, Charter anticipates achieving $500 million in annual cost savings within three years and plans to manage $12 billion of Cox's debt. However, the merger still requires shareholder and regulatory approval, and potential challengers like Comcast may pose obstacles in the approval process.